When Matt Dillon started vaulting with us in the spring of his junior year, he had never pushed his athletic limits. When he returned as a senior from Needham-Broughton High School, we knew Matt would make the New Balance Nationals qualifying height, because when Matt is on, he is on. He improved 37.5” between November and May.

Our favorite Matt story took place at the 2016 NCHSAA 4A Outdoor State Championships. Matt shocked only himself when he placed 2nd at the most competitive state meet across all classifications. After Matt ran around the field whooping in amazement, Coach caught him and pointed to the stands. Behind his parents Chris and Ann, sat a row of college coaches waiting to have a recruitment chat with Matt.

After considering his offers, Matt decided to attend Gardner-Webb University and is looking forward to being a Runnin’ Bulldog at this Division 1 school.